Common names

Columbine, Granny's bonnet

Description

Aquilegia genus (Columbine). This is a genus of around 60-70 species of graceful clump-forming short-lived perennials with bell-shaped, spurred, single to double flowers. They generally bloom in late spring and early summer.

Cultivation

Fully to frost hardy. They generally prefer well drained soil in an open, semi-shaded site, but some are more tolerant of deeper shade or full sun. Keep selected forms segregated from others to stop them interbreeding.

Interest and use

Grown for the mainly bell-shaped, spurred flowers in spring and summer. They are suitable for many situations in the garden.